Taking a gap year has the potential to offer more than just time off to relax. With careful planning, it can be an intentional time dedicated to self-development and self-recovery. But with a host of possibilities for how to spend your gap year, how can you decide what’s ideal for you?
If you have no idea whether a gap year is right for you, or if you’ve decided to take the plunge but don’t know what to do, you have definitely come to the right place. In this quick guide, we will help you weigh your options.
Pros of a Gap Year
The good thing about taking a gap year is that you will return to your studies or job feeling more inspired, engaged and focused. Some time to step away from the relentless forward march of school and career has the potential to help you clarify what matters most to you.
If this is not enough, a gap year can nurture independence and a sense of purpose, which may in turn help you become a better student. Not to mention many gap year pursuits, like travel and service work, encourage you to see the world in different ways. This expanded perspective can build maturity, empathy and cross-cultural awareness while improving communication and interpersonal skills.
Travel Abroad
Travelling abroad is arguably the most common goal among gap year participants. And there is nothing wrong with that if the numerous benefits destined to follow are anything to with. Actually, there are many options for how to spend a gap year abroad. You can decide to follow your own itinerary or simply go with a structured program.
Learn a New Language
Taking up a new language can be a big plus on your resume, and what better way to hone your skills than by practicing all day, every day with native speakers. Whether you are working, volunteering, or simply relaxing, spending your gap year can greatly improve your fluency.
Of course, there are many more things you can do during a gap year. It all narrows down to what you deem appealing.
